Borage
Important Disclaimer
This is not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any remedy, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding, on medication, or managing a health condition.
Overview
Borage is a beautiful annual herb with striking star-shaped blue flowers and fuzzy, cucumber-scented leaves. The plant grows 1-3 feet tall with hollow, hairy stems and large, wrinkled leaves covered in bristly hairs. The vibrant blue flowers (occasionally pink or white) bloom profusely from early summer through fall, making it a favorite of bees and other pollinators. Both the flowers and young leaves are edible and have been used in cooking and medicine for centuries. The plant self-seeds readily and is easy to grow in most gardens.
Traditional Use
Borage has been cultivated since ancient times, with references dating back to ancient Greece and Rome. The Romans believed it brought courage and cheerfulness, giving rise to the saying 'I, borage, bring courage.' Medieval herbalists used it to lift spirits and dispel melancholy. The flowers were traditionally floated in wine cups at celebrations. In European folk medicine, borage was used for fevers, coughs, and depression. The leaves were applied as poultices for inflammation and skin conditions. Modern use focuses primarily on borage seed oil, which is rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), though the leaves and flowers continue to be used in herbal medicine.
Key Active Compounds
Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) in seed oil
An omega-6 fatty acid with anti-inflammatory properties. Supports skin health, hormonal balance, and joint function. Borage seed oil contains 20-26% GLA, one of the richest plant sources.
Mucilage
Soothing, gel-like compounds that coat and protect mucous membranes. Provide relief for sore throats, coughs, and digestive irritation. Give borage its demulcent properties.
Saponins
Plant compounds with expectorant and anti-inflammatory effects. Help loosen mucus in respiratory conditions and support adrenal function.
Tannins and flavonoids
Antioxidant compounds with anti-inflammatory and astringent properties. Support immune function and help protect cells from oxidative damage.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Stress and Adrenal Support
TraditionalBorage has a long tradition of use for lifting spirits and supporting the adrenal glands during times of stress. The saponins may help restore adrenal function after prolonged stress or illness. Traditionally used for emotional exhaustion and burnout.
Respiratory Relief
TraditionalThe mucilage content soothes irritated respiratory passages, while expectorant properties help loosen mucus. Traditionally used for coughs, bronchitis, and chest congestion. The flowers and leaves can be made into a soothing tea.
Anti-inflammatory Effects
ModerateBorage seed oil's high GLA content has demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects in studies. May help with rheumatoid arthritis, eczema, and other inflammatory conditions. The oil is taken as a supplement rather than using the whole herb.
Skin Health
ModerateGLA from borage seed oil supports skin barrier function and reduces inflammation in conditions like eczema and dermatitis. Both internal use of the oil and topical application may benefit skin health.
Common Preparation Methods
Fresh Leaf Tea
Steep 1-2 teaspoons of fresh, chopped borage leaves in 1 cup of boiling water for 10 minutes. Strain before drinking.
Dosage: Drink 1-3 cups daily for respiratory or stress support.The tea has a mild, cucumber-like flavor. Fresh leaves are preferred over dried. The fuzzy hairs soften when steeped.
Flower Infusion
Steep fresh or dried borage flowers in hot water for 5-10 minutes.
Dosage: Drink 1-2 cups daily, or use flowers as a beautiful, edible garnish in beverages.The flowers have a mild, sweet taste and are traditionally used to lift spirits. Can be frozen in ice cubes.
Borage Seed Oil Capsules
Take standardized borage seed oil supplements containing 20-26% GLA.
Dosage: 500-1,500 mg daily (providing 100-400 mg GLA), divided into 2-3 doses with meals.Seed oil is the most concentrated source of GLA. Look for hexane-free, cold-pressed oil. Effects may take 6-8 weeks.
Fresh Juice
Juice fresh borage leaves and stems. Dilute with water or other vegetable juices.
Dosage: 1-2 tablespoons of fresh juice, 2-3 times daily.Traditional method for adrenal support. The juice is quite potent. Use only young, tender leaves.
Safety & Cautions
Please read carefully before use
Contraindications
- Liver disease (contains trace pyrrolizidine alkaloids)
- Pregnancy (may stimulate uterine contractions)
- Bleeding disorders or upcoming surgery (seed oil may increase bleeding risk)
Drug Interactions
- May increase bleeding risk when combined with anticoagulant medications (warfarin, aspirin)
- May interact with NSAIDs and other anti-inflammatory drugs
- Seed oil may lower seizure threshold (caution with anticonvulsant medications)
Possible Side Effects
- Mild digestive upset with high doses
- Rare allergic reactions
- Potential liver toxicity with long-term use of whole herb (due to trace pyrrolizidine alkaloids)
- Seed oil: bloating, nausea, headache in some individuals
Special Populations
- Pregnancy: Avoid use. Nursing: Insufficient safety data; avoid therapeutic doses. Children: Not recommended due to pyrrolizidine alkaloid content. For seed oil use, consult healthcare provider. Use certified PA-free products when available.
Sources & References
Journal of Ethnopharmacology
Current Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
Quick Reference
Boraginaceae (Borage family)
Leaves, Flowers, Seeds (for oil)
Cucumber-like, slightly salty, refreshing
Safety First
Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new remedy, especially if you have existing health conditions or take medications.